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Newfoundland and Labrador Education Minister Clyde Jackman, an outspoken opponent of bullying in schools, was accused in the House of Assembly on Thursday of being a bully himself.

Liberal MHA Dale Kirby said Nathan Whalen, the president of the Newfoundland and Labrador Federation of School Councils, complained to the premier's office about an incident last week.

Kirby said Jackman was totally out of line during a conversation that he had with Whalen.

"Disrespected and bullied by the minister of education, who is supposed to be a defender of those who are bullied in society," said Kirby.

"And I say, this is not funny folks. I ask the premier, is he aware of this? And if so, how has he addressed this very serious allegation of bullying and intimidation by one of his cabinet ministers."

Nathan Whalen, the president of the Newfoundland and Labrador Federation of School Councils, says he met with the premier's chief of staff following an incident with Education Minister Clyde Jackman. (CBC)

Premier Tom Marshall said his office has received the complaint and has treated it seriously.

"I did respond to that individual. I had my chief of staff meet with that individual. They were gathering the information," Marshall said.

"They've met with the minister of education and I understand as soon as I have the results of that, [that] I'll take whatever action is appropriate."

Marshall said the complaint is just an allegation right now, and that he will not pass judgment until the complaint has been fully investigated.